The concept of “power” is one of the key at the same time the most controversial in the theory of international relations. Like most of the categories, the concept of “force” in international relations theory does not have a well-established, universally accepted definition. J. Introduction. Hiring in the scientific revolution of the concept of “soft power” and the ensuing debates have only exacerbated the situation terminological ambiguity around this concept. This article attempts to indicate the general approaches to the formulation of the definition of the concept of “soft power”, which would allow, on the one hand, to draw a distinction between “soft” and “hard power”, and the other - to show its structural relationship and interdependence within the framework of foreign policy the activities of players in the international arena. Each of the above mentioned “forces” based on different resources. And the “hard” and “soft power” as the context requires, depending on its purpose can be derived from engaging any type of resources available to him, and more often - because of their combination. Of course, the existence of common values shared by the states, promotes cooperation between them, but is not a decisive factor. The behavior of the state is dictated primarily by its interests, rather than subjective factors.
